The aftermath of women's oppression, subjugation and emancipation in the patriarchal society of Ben Binebai's Karina's Cross

Abstract

Drama often captures the complexities of liberation struggles, particularly women's emancipation from patriarchal oppression. This paper examines the aftermath of women's emancipation, focusing on its societal impact as explored in Ben Binebai's Karena's Cross. The study investigates women's experiences of oppression, subjugation, and subsequent liberation within the framework of patriarchal Nigerian and African cultures. Employing qualitative methodologies rooted in literary and sociological analysis, it interprets Karena's Cross as a primary source and integrates historical perspectives to contextualise the findings. The research reveals that challenging patriarchal norms empowers individuals and fosters communal progress by promoting education, equality, and social enlightenment. However, the path to emancipation is fraught with entrenched cultural practices, economic inequalities, and systemic injustices that perpetuate gender-based violence and discrimination. The study underscores that addressing these barriers requires individual resilience and systemic accountability, including challenging harmful traditions, bridging gender-based economic disparities, and prosecuting acts of discrimination. Moreover, the findings highlight that the success of any struggle against oppression extends beyond individual victories, benefiting society by encouraging a shift toward justice and equity. The paper concludes that women's emancipation can potentially dismantle oppressive structures, reshape cultural narratives, and catalyse societal development. However, these outcomes are contingent upon sustained advocacy and the active dismantling of patriarchal systems. By interrogating the transformative impact of women's liberation, this study contributes to the discourse on gender equality and the role of drama as a vehicle for social change in Africa.